Saunders was due to meet Dave Ryan for the strap headlining the Matchroom boxing bill at the Arena.

Unfortunately, the Sedgefield boxer has had to withdraw after rupturing tendons and ligaments in his right hand.

South Shields’ English champion Anthony ‘Babyface’ Nelson has instead been bumped up the bill to take on Scotland’s Jamie Wilson for the vacant super flyweight commonwealth strap.

Head of Matchroom Eddie Hearn said: “It’s a blow for Bradley but a great chance for Anthony Nelson and Jamie Wilson to steal the show.

“Nelson will have the crowd behind him and it’s going to be a hostile atmosphere for young Scotsman Wilson to contend with, but I’m delighted that they both get this shot at the big time.”

Olympic super-heavyweight gold medallist Anthony Joshua will appear on the bill in a comeback fight after injury.

Newcastle’s Jon-Lewis Dickinson is matched up against Stephen Simmoms with the visitors WBC International Silver Cruiserweight title up for grabs.

His brother Travis is also on the card along with many other top local talent including Bradley’s brother Jeff making his professional debut, Simon Vallily, Jordan King and another debutant in Lewis Ritson.

There is no news yet on if the fight between Saunders and Ryan will take place at a later date but Matchroom’s statement said fans who wish to receive a refund should contact their place of purchase.

Tickets for the event on April 4 are still available priced at £40, £60 and £100.